Vung Tau: A corner of heaven for nature lovers in Vietnam

Vung Tau is a bustling coastal city in Southern Vietnam, welcoming millions of tourists every year with both its natural and cultural attractions. It is important for visitors to thoroughly plan their trip to optimally explore the most appealing aspects of the city. In this article, we will show a full rundown of everything you need to know in preparation for a Vung Tau tour.

1. Is Vung Tau worth visiting?

Vung Tau is the biggest city of Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, located in the southeastern region of Vietnam. It shares borders with Dong Nai, Ho Chi Minh City, and Binh Thuan. To its south is none other than the South China Sea, where its charming beachside attractions make up the tourism scene alongside various cultural sites.

It has been agreed upon by many that Vung Tau is one of the most exciting cities in Vietnam to visit. Welcoming up to 6 million visitors per year, this picturesque coastal city reinforces its reputation as a worthwhile destination for a tropical getaway. Vung Tau travel thrives thanks to the weather which remains pleasant throughout the year, maintaining a sunny and breezy atmosphere. Rainfall dominates certain periods of the year, which is typical of the region. Tourists can rest assured, however, that the rain will not be too disruptive to their activities.

2. Famous tourist attractions in Vung Tau

There are plenty of things to do in Vung Tau thanks to the wide variety of attractions. While each attraction has their own appeal, they can generally be sorted into two groups: natural marvels and cultural sites.

2.1. Natural marvels in Vung Tau

2.1.1. Beautiful beaches located in and near Vung Tau

If you ask any local about what to do in Vung Tau Vietnam, chances are they will tell you to hit the beach. Which one you may ask? The great thing about beaches in Vung Tau is the diversity of activities, so you can have a whole lot of fun no matter which one you choose. For your reference purposes, Back Beach, Long Hai Beach, and Suoi O/Song Lo Beach are some of the most notable locations you can swing by on your beachside excursion. During this journey, you can either take the relaxing route and go swimming or sunbathing or a more upbeat one with water sports and seafood parties on the best beach in Vung Tau.

2.1.2. Islands in Vung Tau

There are a few islands off the coast of Vung Tau and they are absolutely spellbinding, each offering a distinctive experience. Hon Ba Island sets itself apart as a well-beloved attraction sitting on its lonesome amidst the beautiful sea. On the island is a small temple dedicated to the local deities, making it a haven for residents of the island. Additionally, Go Gang Island and Ngoc Island are famed for their natural landscapes as well as the diverse seafood dishes you can enjoy in the outdoors.

2.1.3. Nghinh Phong Cape

Among the most scenic places to visit in Vung Tau, Nghinh Phong Cape is a headland that boasts immense natural beauty with countless incredible photo ops. The breathtaking views of the ocean on one side and lush mountains on the other create a contrastive yet harmonious composition of landscapes, elevating its reputation as one of the best places to be to satisfy your wanderlust.

2.1.4. Pig Hill

Pig Hill and its peculiar name is an indispensable attraction in any Vung Tau tour. This spot is popular for its panoramic views, which are matched by few locations in the city. Seemingly barren at first glance, the hill greets its visitors with a unique beauty highlighted by the sand and bright blue sky. As you set your gaze on the immense views opening up in front of you, Pig Hill becomes a vantage point to unwind and take some gorgeous photos.

See what you can expect from Vung Tau nightlife!

2.1.5. Da Xanh Lake

Another noteworthy body of water in Vung Tau is Da Xanh Lake. This enchanting attraction has a signature teal glow that acts as a magnificent backdrop for your photos. Aside from that, its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty invite many visitors to come relax and capture some memorable moments in their Vung Tau city tour.

2.1.6. Tien Stream – Da Stream

If you are looking to escape the city life, a journey to Tien Stream – Da Stream will be amazing. This is a more-than-adequate alternative to the tropical vibes at the beaches, allowing you to bask in the tranquility of the surrounding forest while enjoying the sights of the natural streams. Most visitors find this relatively reclusive place a perfect camping spot, where friends and family can enjoy grilling food together and taking a dip in the streams.

2.1.7. Ho May Park

The epitome of all natural attractions in Vung Tau has to be Ho May Park, a well-known amusement park perched atop Nui Lon (Big Mountain). Commonly referred to as “Da Lat amidst Vung Tau”, this park is accessible with a cable car ride that displays the panoramic views of the city. Once you are there, a variety of activities await, including modern games, spiritual sites, and a vast area covered by the lush jungle.

2.2. Cultural sites in Vung Tau

2.2.1. Thich Ca Phat Dai

Seek serenity and learn about religions at Thich Ca Phat Dai, a sprawling Buddhist complex in Vung Tau. This architectural wonder is not only beautiful but also momentous, especially in the long-standing Buddhist heritage of the country. With detailed chronicles of the journey to Buddhahood of the Buddha as well as a magnificent Buddha statue, this attraction offers a captivating journey for the soul, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking cultural treasures.

2.2.2. Christ of Vung Tau

The Christ of Vung Tau has been a symbol of faith for the local Catholic community for decades. Ever since this Vung Tau Jesus statue was unveiled to the public in 1994, it has been an indispensable part of the cityscape, standing proudly at 32 meters in height. Inside, visitors can follow the 133-step stairway leading from the foundation all the way to the outstretched arms for a panoramic view of the city and its gorgeous coastline.

2.2.3. White Palace

Situated 30 meters above sea level, White Palace Vung Tau offers its visitors a vantage point for a glimpse into a significant period of Vietnamese history. Built from the late 1890s to early 1900s, this building was once known as Phuoc Thanh Fort, one of the main lines of defense when France was heading towards Saigon. It was repurposed into a luxurious retreat for French authorities. As a result, the building serves as both a treasure trove of colonial architecture and a key witness of various key historical events of the region.

2.2.4. Robert Taylor Museum of Worldwide Arms

Turn back the hands of time at the Robert Taylor Museum of Worldwide Arms in Vung Tau. Here, you can admire military artifacts spanning centuries and continents like swords, armors, and all sorts of weapons on display in the French colonial building. Visiting this fascinating museum is one of the best things to do in Vung Tau, as it not only showcases the evolution of warfare but also offers a glimpse into different cultures all under one roof.

2.2.5. Thang Tam Temple

Steeped in local legends and vibrant celebrations, Thang Tam Temple has been a very important spiritual site in the city since the era of the Nguyen Dynasty. Not only will you be able to experience some of the most notable cultural traits of Vung Tau, from traditional rituals to festivals, this site will also open your eyes to the signature ancient architecture of Vietnam, with intricate carvings and meticulous details adorning the temple.

2.2.6. Hon Ba Temple

Unlike the fellow spiritual site of Thang Tam Temple, Hon Ba Temple is on a secluded island in the middle of the sea. To reach this spot, visitors will have to walk on a designated pathway or take a boat ride when the water rises. The temple has an interesting origin involving a joint effort of the locals contributing to its establishment and renovation, as well as a peculiar incident involving a French soldier.

2.2.7. Vung Tau Lighthouse

For a coastal city, a lighthouse is more of a necessity than a decorative landmark. Nonetheless, Vung Tau Lighthouse is a bit of both. Sitting on Nui Nho (Small Mountain), this lighthouse is yet another point to capture the cityscape in your sight. Visitors only need to follow a tunnel leading from the lighthouse keepers’ lodgings to reach the top of Vung Tau Lighthouse – one of the oldest lighthouses in the entire country.

2.2.8. Song Vinh Cathedral

Song Vinh Cathedral is one of the newer attractions in the city, beginning to welcome visitors in December 2022. This stunning cathedral perfectly captures the classic Gothic architecture reminiscent of grand European cathedrals. No matter if you are standing outside or inside the building, there are countless photo ops waiting for you at this cultural gem.

3. Culinary specialties of Vung Tau, Vietnam

Food tours have gained a lot of traction in recent years and Vung Tau is emerging as an appealing destination for a satisfactory gastronomic journey.

3.1. Must-try dishes

When in Vung Tau, tourists are presented with an array of delicious delicacies, from savory to sweet. These are the most notable meals you can get in the city:

• Seafood: Lobster, crab, fish, oyster, mussel, and clam are among the best ingredients you can find here. Grilled, steamed, or boiled, you name it, the best Vung Tau seafood restaurants can prepare it for you.
• Banh khot (mini crispy pancakes): Indulge in the bite-sized goodness of these pancakes. They are prepared with mung beans and shrimp and served with fresh herbs and fish sauce.
• Lau ca duoi (stingray hotpot): Gather around a boiling pot of tender fish cooked in a rich and flavorful broth seasoned to perfection.
• Banh mi cha ca (banh mi with fish cakes): This is an iconic Vietnamese dish with a chewy and buttery twist.

3.2. Food gifts for friends & family

A lot of tourists have fallen in love with the food in the city and want to share them with their friends and family at home. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to bring home a piece of Vung Tau from your trip:

• Dried seafood: Dried squid or mackerel are two of the best variations you can find. There are many popular stores across the city offering these products. The dishes you can make with these ingredients can be as good as those in the best restaurant in Vung Tau.
• Fish sauce: Despite being a bit special for the Western palate, the bold and pungent taste of fish sauce will add many layers to your dishes, from soups to stir-frys. You can also try other special fermented products made from prawns and fish.
• Banh bong lan trung muoi (salted egg yolk sponge cake): The locals hit a jackpot with this idea because it sparked a huge craze nationwide when it first came out. The salty taste of the egg blends harmoniously with the buttery nature of a sponge cake.

4. Perfect itinerary for your first trip to Vung Tau

The locals often consider a Vung Tau day trip to be perfect for a quick weekend getaway, so doubling that duration should be enough for you to have a whole lot of fun in the city. For your reference, check out this itinerary to plan your trip:

• Day 1:
  • Start your morning early at Xom Luoi Fish Market for a glimpse into the local culture.
  • Have a taste of hand-pulled noodles at a local stall.
  • Go on a tour to visit offshore oil rigs to have a look at the city’s contributions to the country’s industrialization process.
  • Venture into the city to visit the White Palace, the Christ statue, or the Lighthouse to admire the cityscape.
  • Stop by a street food stall to try banh khot.
  • Take a boat ride to Go Gang Island and try the very best seafood.
  • Have fun at the beach and catch the romantic sunset.
  • End your day on a high note with a pot of stingray hotpot or stroll around town to experience the nightlife in Vung Tau.
• Day 2:
  • Welcome the new day at Nghinh Phong Cape, where you can watch the sunrise without any distractions.
  • Have breakfast with banh mi cha ca.
  • Hop on the cable car to reach Ho May Park and explore all the attractions there.
  • Get some rest to have lunch with a hearty bowl of squid noodles.
  • Venture to Da Xanh Lake for a peaceful boat ride.
  • Swing by the night market in Vung Tau to mingle with the locals and buy some souvenirs to commemorate your trip.

5. Extra travel tips for a trouble-free Vung Tau journey

5.1. Best time to visit Vung Tau, Vietnam

The weather in Vung Tau is generally pleasant with only two seasons: dry and rainy. The former spans from November to April while the latter takes up the entire summer vacation, specifically from May to October. This is why the time preceding or following Tet, which can be any time from mid-January to mid-February, is best for a trip to Vung Tau. During this period, you can take advantage of the reduced tourist traffic and more delightful weather. With that said, always check the weather forecast before beginning your journey. 

5.2. A complete Vung Tau transport guide

5.2.1. Getting to Vung Tau

Vung Tau does not have an international airport, so it is highly recommended that you make your way to Ho Chi Minh City via Tan Son Nhat Airport. Here is how to get to Vung Tau from Ho Chi Minh City:

• By private vehicle: Renting a car or motorbike provides you with flexibility in the journey. Simply follow the Ho Chi Minh City – Long Thanh – Dau Giay expressway to reach Vung Tau.
• By coach: Many coach companies operate on the route from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau, and the best place to find a bus ride is Mien Dong Bus Station. A ride to Vung Tau is often priced from 80,000 to 160,000 VND per ticket.
• By ferry: Alternatively, catching a ferry from Can Gio to Vung Tau works too, as the journey is only 30 minutes long.
• By speedboat: For a comfortable journey, the Pacific Express speedboat proves to be an ideal choice. The ride will take 1 hour 30 minutes, departing from Nha Rong Wharf.

5.5.2. Getting around Vung Tau

Getting around the city is as important as getting there in the first place. Depending on your budget, you can choose between these options for your vacation: 

• By bus: If you have ample time and a constrained budget, the bus is a great option. Bus tickets only cost from 6,000 to 20,000 VND/trip.
• By taxi: Arguably the most common choices for tourists, many popular taxi companies like Mai Linh, Vinasun, and Petro operate in the city.
• By motorbike/bicycle: If you have a valid license, renting a motorbike is a great way to get around the city. Bicycles work too, as cycling around is a nice leisure activity.
• By helicopter: To enjoy a panoramic vista of the entire city, hop on a helicopter ride offered by Southern Vietnam Helicopter Company.
• By electric car: Electric cars are an environmentally friendly transportation method. Ticket prices are about 100,000 VND for a 3-seater and 320,000 VND for a 13-seater.

5.3. Where to stay in Vung Tau?

There is no shortage of accommodation in Vung Tau, especially the areas surrounding Front Beach and Back Beach, two of the most visited beaches in the city. Prices for hotels in Vung Tau can range from 100,000 to a few tens of million VND. Some of the most luxurious accommodations in the city are Pullman, The Imperial, InterContinental Grand Ho Tram, Melia Ho Tram Beach Resort, and Holiday Inn Resort Ho Tram Beach. Many tourists also opt for homestays for more flexibility. These villas can house a large group of people so they are absolutely amazing for class and company trips.

5.4. What to pack for a trip to Vung Tau, Vietnam?

Finally, packing your luggage for the trip is of utmost importance in ensuring a safe and comfortable time in the city:

• Personal documents like a valid driver’s license, ID card, and vehicle registration card.
• Money: Cash, ATM cards, and credit cards are key necessities for the trip.
• Clothing: Comfortable clothes like t-shirts, shorts, and jeans as well as swimwear, flip-flops, sandals, and headwear should be enough for the trip. If you plan on visiting spiritual sites, make sure to prepare polite outfits as well.

Other items: Helmets and other motorbike gears, sunglasses, electrical devices like cameras and phone chargers, toiletries, make-up, medicine, etc.

Vung Tau is a beautiful destination of Vietnam travel. With a diverse collection of attractions and activities, you can easily plan a fun-filled itinerary for a great time in this coastal city. Then, extend your trip to other cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Long, Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc to further have fun in Vietnam.

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